We were appointed by a developer client to provide landscape architect services for a detailed change of use planning application in Canning Town, East London. Our role focused on developing the landscape proposals and preparing the information required for planning approval.
Initially, our landscape architects prepared a sketch landscape design for client approval. Following approval, we developed the proposals into a detailed landscape design. We also prepared a Landscape Design Statement to support the planning submission.
Following the planning application, our landscape architect team prepared information to discharge the relevant landscape planning condition. We then developed the proposals into a comprehensive tender package of landscape architect information.
The existing building has a ‘U’-shaped form, with the open elevation facing south. A basement car park sits beneath the courtyard. Consequently, the entire courtyard occupies a podium deck slab. Our landscape design therefore needed to balance privacy, amenity and technical constraints.
To improve privacy, our landscape architects proposed groups of shrubs and trees along the open southern elevation. This planting creates a softer edge while screening views between the courtyard and surrounding properties.
The building edge also presented several design challenges. In particular, the residential units directly adjoin the public footway. The Local Authority therefore requested measures to prevent overlooking from the street into individual dwellings. In addition, the landscape design needed to accommodate horizontal ventilation grilles serving the basement car park.
Within the courtyard, our landscape architect team developed a flexible space for residents and visitors. Each ground-floor dwelling has a private patio facing the courtyard. However, these patios also sit alongside shared amenity areas.
We therefore used raised planters and appropriately scaled planting to provide privacy. At the same time, the planting creates a clear distinction between private and communal spaces.
The courtyard also provides primary access to a significant number of ground-floor homes. Consequently, our landscape architects carefully considered accessibility throughout the design. All primary pedestrian routes incorporate DDA-compliant access principles.
Furthermore, the main courtyard provides shared amenity space for different types of users. The landscape design accommodates passive recreation, active use and a dedicated children’s play area. It also integrates the primary pedestrian access network for the development.
Overall, our landscape architect services combined residential amenity, privacy, accessibility and technical requirements within a constrained podium landscape. The resulting landscape design creates a functional and attractive courtyard while responding to the requirements of the planning process.
Landscape Institutes Work Stages: C to F/G
Client: Mizen Design Build
Architect: Osel Architecture